INACSL25 Denver Travel Guide

Where to Eat

  1. Yard House (next to the Sheraton)
  2. Bezel Denver Cocktail Bar (within one block)
  3. The Delectable Egg (within one block – online ordering available)
  4. Maggiano’s Little Italy (within two blocks)
  5. La Loma (0.4 miles)
  6. Ship Tavern (located in the Brown Palace Hotel – 0.4 miles)
  7. Appaloosa Grill (0.9 miles)
  8. Denver Chophouse (1.5 miles)
  9. Stout Street Social (1.7 miles)
  10. Izakaya Den (5 miles)

Where to Shop

16th Street Mall (2 miles)
Type: Pedestrian promenade
Stores: Chain retailers (H&M, Banana Republic), souvenir shops, cafes, kiosks
Vibe: Family-friendly and lively with free MallRide shuttles
Tip: Visit in the evening for street performers and lights

Larimer Square (2 miles)
Type: Historic shopping district
Stores: Upscale boutiques, artisan goods, designer apparel
Vibe: Trendy and romantic with photo-worthy architecture

Denver Pavilions (0.8 miles)
Type: Open-air shopping
Stores: Mid-range retailers (Sephora, Forever 21), restaurants, movie theaters
Vibe: Casual and great for groups

Union Station Boutique Shopping (2 miles)
Type: Historic train station
Stores: Tattered Cover Bookstore, Rockmount Ranch Wear, gift shops
Vibe: Cozy, cultural, and perfect for browsing with coffee

Dairy Block/The Alley (2 miles)
Type: Artistic micro-district
Stores: Local designers, artisan shops, pop-ups
Vibe: Hip, modern, and full of unique finds

Sightseeing

  1. Union Station (2 miles)
  2. Denver Art Museum (0.9 miles)
    Highlights: Architecture and Native American art
  3. Denver Botanic Gardens (2.4 miles)
  4. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre (25 minutes)
    Highlights: Natural formations, visitor center, scenic views
  5. RiNo Art District (1.5 miles)
    Highlights: Street art, murals, graffiti-covered alleys
  6. Coors Field (1.3 miles)
    Highlights: Rooftop bar, mountain views, stadium tours
  7. Colorado State Capitol (0.5 miles)
    Highlight: Gold dome and photo op at "One Mile Above Sea Level" step
  8. Denver Zoo (2.7 miles)
    Highlights: Over 3,000 animals
  9. Mount Evans Scenic Byway (1 hour)
    Highlight: Drive one of North America’s highest paved roads (14,130 ft) for breathtaking views

*Distances are from the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel

Tourist Tips

  1. Stay hydrated!
  2. Skip the gym on your first day to adjust to altitude.
  3. Drink alcohol sparingly — it hits harder at elevation.
  4. Bring lip balm and moisturizer (the air is dry).
  5. Pack layers; Denver weather changes quickly.
  6. Use public transit (RTD light rail, buses, free MallRide, scooters, bikes).
  7. Rent a car for day trips.
  8. Consider a CityPASS or Denver Attractions Pass for sightseeing savings.
  9. Safety Tips:
    1. Stay with friends and avoid looking like a tourist.
    2. Stick to well-lit, populated areas.
    3. Keep belongings secure in crowds.
    4. Leave valuables at home.